Massive ignition switch-related recalls: all the kids are doing it. Even Chrysler, who today announced the recall of 792,300 older Jeep models worldwide to fix some very familiar ignition switch issues.
Automotive News reports the recall includes 2006-07 Jeep Commanders and 2005-06 Jeep Grand Cherokees. Chrysler says these cars' ignition switches could be knocked out of the "on" position inadvertently, causing a stall and a loss of power to airbags.
It sounds very similar to the defect that led General Motors to recall millions of small and mid-size cars this year. The origin of the part is unclear. From the story:
Chrysler said its investigation "suggests an outside force, usually attributed to contact with the driver's knee, may move ignition keys from the 'on' position." The company said that the condition "may cause engine stall, reducing braking power and making steering more difficult. Safety features such as frontal airbags may also be disabled."
[...] The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said earlier it had logged at least 32 complaints alleging that, while driving, a driver's leg came in contact with the SUV's key fob or key chain, causing the key to switch to the "off" or "accessory" position.
The AP says Chrysler knows of no injuries and only one accident related to the problem.
Have any Jeep owners encountered this problem?